You can feel the strong Cajun tradition the moment you step inside the Savoy Music Center near the southwest Louisiana city of Eunice. The blend of strong black coffee, the savory aroma of boudin sausage, lively conversations, and the music create an atmosphere that is unmistakably Cajun.
savoy music – a family legacy
The Saturday jam sessions at the Savoy Music Center are a testament to the enduring appeal of Cajun music. The music begins with the strong voice of Sarah Savoy, singing in French and playing the piano. The gatherings feature a mix of fiddles, guitars, and the distinctive sound of the accordion played by Sarah’s father, Marc Savoy. He started these weekly music gatherings back in 1966. “Ever since the first time I heard the music being played by a human being, that’s what really hooked me,” Savoy said. The Savoy family, including Marc’s wife Ann and their two sons, Wilson and Joel, all join the jam session.
worldwide interest in savoy music jam sessions
The Savoy Saturday jam is a magnet for musicians and enthusiasts from around the world. Regulars like John Vidrine from nearby Mamou and international visitors like Simon Martinson from Sweden come to immerse themselves in the traditional Cajun sound. “Just traditional old-time Cajun Music,” Vidrine comments, expressing his love for the gatherings. Martinson, on his journey to experience Cajun music, notes, “I’m just here to learn and get a feel for it.”
The savoy cajun tradition featured on tv
the strong tradition of cajun music
Marc Savoy believes in the unique sound of traditional Cajun music, saying, “The reason that Cajun music was embraced by so many people all over the world is because it doesn’t sound like modern music.” His commitment to preserving and sharing Cajun culture is evident in his handcrafted Acadian accordions, a tradition now being continued by his son, Joel.
cajun music – tradition and innovation
Marc Savoy firmly believes that the interest in Cajun music comes from its traditional sound, “You have to build on its strength”, he says. But that old style contrasts with Joel’s vision for the genre’s future, that the music needs to evolve. That means, “writing stuff which is relevant to today in Cajun French,” Joel says.
a savoy music legacy continues
Marc Savoy hopeful about the future of their cultural legacy. “I’m confident that the day comes when I don’t to show up anymore, It’ll be in good hands,” he says. From the craftsmanship of the accordions to their commitment to nurturing nearly 60 years of music, the Savoy family stands at the forefront of preserving and advancing the rich Cajun tradition.
savoy music center location
Savoy Music Center is located at 4413 Hwy 190-E, Eunice, LA. The traditional Cajun music jam sessions are held every Saturday from 9am-12noon.
4413 U.S. Hwy 190, Eunice, LA 70535
Jeannie Lannes
I enjoyed segment thank you